Our team over at CCEDA (Cortes Community Economic Development Association) is pleased to announce that we’re kicking off the first stages of planning for the 2.6 acres of commercially zoned land tucked in behind Manson’s Community Hall. CCEDA has been responsible for this land since 2018, holding it in trust for future community use.

Starting soon, we will be doing some initial work to make the site safe and accessible for the public to use. This summer’s project is to create a COVID-safe outdoor space that will include picnic tables and upgraded trails, so people can be out on the land together, safely.

In addition to preparing the site as an outdoor gathering space, we are in the middle of planning a series of community meetings and surveys - online and in small outdoor groups - to create a vision for the long-term use of this commons. With a shortage of commercial space available on the island, we will be especially interested in what needs and services could complement the existing Manson’s Landing “downtown core.” This might include retail, office, or event space, food security infrastructure, or something else that we haven’t even thought of yet! We are keen to hear what you have to say about the future of this land. Please keep an eye out for upcoming notices on ways to get in on this visioning effort.

CCEDA would also like to acknowledge the generous contribution from our current funder for this project: The BC government's Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program (CERIP) for CCEDA’s COVID-19 Response Project for safe outdoor interaction on the property.

As well, Island Coastal Economic Trust's QuickStartprogram is providing funding for community engagement toward a detailed business plan for the long-term development of this commons.

For more information, please contact Kate Maddigan at project.mgr.ccedagmail.com.